Chapter 7, Problem 1RQ

What types of properties do nonferrous metals possess that might not be available in the ferrous metals?

To determine

The properties of nonferrous metals that are not available in ferrous metals.

Explanation of Solution

Ferrous metals are those which contain iron as their main components. Some of the ferrous metals are alloy steel, carbon steel, cast iron, wrought iron. While nonferrous metals are those which do not contains iron. Some of the nonferrous metals are aluminum, copper, lead, zinc and tin as well as gold and silver.

The following are the properties that nonferrous metals contain but may not be available in ferrous metals.

1. Corrosion resistance: - Since nonferrous do not contain iron so they are highly corrosion resistance to rust and corrosion.
2. Excellent electrical and thermal conductivity: - Nonferrous has excellent thermal and electrical conductivity. They are used as an electrical conductor in wire and motor, heat exchanger, heating vessel & appliances.
3. Ease of fabrication: - They have high machinability and castability properties. The fabrication of nonferrous is easy.
4. Lightweight: - they are light in weight. The airplane component is made of non-ferrous metals.
5. High ductility: - Most of the nonferrous metals are highly ductile in nature, while ferrous metals have less ductility. Nonferrous becomes hard after cold working, so it needs annealing.